Galungan marks the victory of dharma (good) over adharma (evil), when ancestral spirits return to visit the earth. It falls every 210 days on the Balinese calendar and culminates ten days later in Kuningan.

What you’ll see In the days before Galungan, families raise a penjor — a tall, gracefully arched bamboo pole decorated with palm leaves, fruit and flowers — outside every home. Streets across the island turn into avenues of them.

Visiting a temple respectfully Temples fill with families in ceremonial dress bringing offerings. Visitors are welcome at many temples but should:

Wear a sarong and sash (often available to rent at the entrance).
Never stand higher than a praying worshipper or walk in front of them.
Ask before taking photos of people at prayer.

Plan around the closures Many shops and warungs close as staff return to their villages. Book transport and tours in advance, and expect a quieter, more reflective island for a few days.

Galungan is the most atmospheric time to experience living Balinese Hinduism — approach it as a guest, and it’s unforgettable.

Galungan & Kuningan 2026: witnessing Bali’s biggest holy days

What you’ll see In the days before Galungan, families raise a penjor — a tall, gracefully arched bamboo pole decorated with palm leaves, fruit and flowers — outside every home. Streets across the island turn into avenues of them.

Visiting a temple respectfully Temples fill with families in ceremonial dress bringing offerings. Visitors are welcome at many temples but should:

Plan around the closures Many shops and warungs close as staff return to their villages. Book transport and tours in advance, and expect a quieter, more reflective island for a few days.

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Bali Arts Festival 2026: a month of dance, music and craft

What you’ll see In the days before Galungan, families raise a *penjor* — a tall, gracefully arched bamboo pole decorated with palm leaves, fruit and flowers — outside every home. Streets across the island turn into avenues of them.

Visiting a temple respectfully Temples fill with families in ceremonial dress bringing offerings. Visitors are welcome at many temples but should:

Plan around the closures Many shops and warungs close as staff return to their villages. Book transport and tours in advance, and expect a quieter, more reflective island for a few days.

More tourism events

Bali Arts Festival 2026: a month of dance, music and craft

What you’ll see In the days before Galungan, families raise a penjor — a tall, gracefully arched bamboo pole decorated with palm leaves, fruit and flowers — outside every home. Streets across the island turn into avenues of them.